This time of year, giving back to the community is a highlighted gesture. Many families struggle with money, especially over the holidays when trying to provide for their loved ones.  Most people think of being a kid an the joy of Santa’s visit. However, many families struggle to make ends meet.

Toys for Tots in Steele County has been in existence for 35 years. The goal of this program is to donate and give new and unwrapped presents to children whose families cannot afford it. Cash and gift cards that are donated will be used directly for purchasing new toys.  Toys for Tots organizer  Mary Higgins said,  “Toys for Tots provides toys for children whose parents are struggling financially who may not have a Christmas gift without this assistance.”

This is a great time to give back to the community, and those in need because everyone deserves to enjoy the holiday season. One way to donate is to attend a concert hosted by Trinity Lutheran Church of Owatonna on Friday, Dec. 7, located at 609 Lincoln Avenue, Owatonna, MN. The doors will open for the concert at 6:00 p.m. and the concert will start at 6:30 p.m..  There is no charge to attend the concert, but all in attendance are encouraged to bring an unwrapped gift or make a donation for the cause. SHOC will be participating and helping with Toys for Tots. Captain Camryn Miller said, “It is so fulfilling to see the families that can’t afford presents and for their kids be able get presents for their kids for no cost.” 

Set up and distribution of all gifts and donations that have been received will be at Trinity Lutheran Church of Owatonna, December 14 to 16. Contact Mary Higgins, the Steele County Toys for Tots Volunteer Coordinator at 507-363-6911 or email her at [email protected] if interested in volunteering.